Maulana Fazlur Rehman Says Army Should Stay Out of Politics to Solve Crisis in Pakistan

Islamabad [Pakistan], July 16: Maulana Fazlur Rehman, leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F), has stated that Pakistan will not overcome its political crisis until the army distances itself from politics. He emphasized that the use of force against political parties is not a solution and called for all institutions to adhere to their constitutional roles.

On Monday, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led government decided to ban Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) due to its alleged involvement in anti-state activities. They also plan to file treason charges against PTI founder Imran Khan, former President Arif Alvi, and former National Assembly deputy speaker Qasim Suri for dissolving the parliament in April 2022.

Rehman reiterated his demand for fresh elections, stating that new and transparent polls are the solution to the country’s problems. Several political parties have joined PTI in condemning the government’s plan to ban the party.

Pakistan’s Information Minister, Ataullah Tarar, stated that PTI and Pakistan cannot co-exist and that the matter should be taken to the federal cabinet and Supreme Court. Farhatullah Babar of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Awami National Party (ANP) criticized the ban, calling it absurd and counterproductive. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, founder of Awam Pakistan, also condemned the decision, warning that it could worsen the situation.